Yellow River Ancient Course Forest Park

What are the most recommended things to do in Yellow River Ancient Course Forest Park?

  • Walk or cycle along scenic trails through the forest and wetlands.
  • Birdwatching and observing local wildlife in their natural habitats.
  • Photography of the Yellow River, forest landscapes, and seasonal changes.
  • Picnicking in designated areas surrounded by nature.
  • Boating or riverside activities if permitted in certain sections.

Introducing Yellow River Ancient Course Forest Park

The Xinxiang Yellow River Ancient Course Forest Park (provincial level) was established on the site of the former state-owned Yanjin Forest Farm, 20 kilometers east of Xinxiang City. Spanning a total area of ​​64,000 mu (approximately 1,000 acres), the park is situated along the ancient Yellow River course, bordered by the Jidong Expressway to the north, the Xinhe Railway to the south, the Beijing-Zhuhai Expressway to the west, and traversed by the Xinchangbei and Xinhua provincial highways. It is also close to the Xinxiang Industrial Park and the Xinxiang Yudong Industrial Zone, offering significant location advantages and convenient transportation.

Here, there are lush trees, clear grass and beautiful water, fragrant flowers and fruits, and a quiet environment. It is praised as a "natural oxygen bar" and "paradise" by people. The ten thousand mu locust forest, thousand mu orchard, thousand mu landscape forest, 30,000 mu poplar forest, national wetland bird nature reserve, Dashaha aquaculture area, etc., have formed a unique tourist scenic spot of the Yellow River Ancient Course. In November 2006, the park was rated as a "National Agricultural Tourism Demonstration Site" by the National Tourism Administration. Since the park began construction in 2004, with its 10,000-acre Sophora japonica forest scenic area as its focal point, a cumulative investment of over 20 million yuan has been made. 17,000 meters of paved paths and 15,000 meters of fencing have been installed. The park boasts 18 scenic spots, including an antique-style office area, a garden-style gate, a fountain plaza, a Hundred Flowers Garden, a botanical garden, a Hundred Fruits Garden, a water lily pond, an ostrich farm, an international flower expo garden, a peach garden farmyard, a hunting ground Mongolian yurt area, a garden-within-a-garden Miao village bamboo house area, a Sophora japonica club, a jungle combat area, and Sophora japonica villa. Officially opened on May Day 2006, the park welcomes 200,000 visitors annually and generates over 3 million yuan in revenue.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate; Yellow River Ancient Channel Forest Park is one of the largest tourist attractions in northern Henan, integrating ecological sightseeing, tourism and vacation, entertainment and leisure, science education, and sports and fitness. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The main gate square gathering area, fountain square, Hundred Flowers Garden, Botanical Garden, Hundred Fruit Garden, Water Lily Pond, Ostrich Garden, International Flower Expo Garden, Peach Garden Farmhouse Courtyard, Hunting Ground Mongolian Yurt Style Area, Garden in the Garden Miao Village Bamboo House Style Area, Sophora Club in the Sophora Garden, Jungle Field Area, Sophora Forest Villa, etc.

It is recommended to play for 4-5 hours

Tickets

20 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Open all day


Most Popular FAQs for Yellow River Ancient Course Forest Park

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Yellow River Ancient Course Forest Park preserves a section of the historic Yellow River course, combining ecological protection with cultural heritage. It highlights the relationship between the river and the region’s development over centuries.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The park is located in Henan province near the old course of the Yellow River. Visitors can reach it by taxi, private car, or local buses from nearby towns or city centers. Walking and cycling are suitable for exploring the park itself.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Generally open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn offer the best weather and scenic colors, while early morning provides calm and fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees are usually modest and can be purchased at the park gate. Some online booking platforms may also offer tickets in advance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is optional for regular visits but recommended during holidays or special ecological tours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours for a general visit; half a day if including all trails, birdwatching spots, and scenic viewpoints.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Historic Yellow River channels and sandbanks.
  • Forest trails and wetland areas.
  • Observation decks for panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape.
  • Ecological education areas showcasing local flora and fauna.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are sometimes available in Chinese; audio guides or English-language services are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Observation platforms overlooking the river course.
  • Forested trails with seasonal foliage.
  • Wetlands during sunrise or sunset for bird photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start at the main entrance and follow marked forest trails.
  • Visit wetlands and observation decks sequentially.
  • End with a riverside walk or picnic area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not allowed for safety reasons, but special ecological or cultural tours may be arranged seasonally.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Holidays and weekends see higher visitor numbers, especially in spring and autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Public restrooms near entrances and key scenic areas.
  • Picnic zones and benches along trails.
  • Small snack stalls or kiosks in visitor centers.
  • Information boards and resting pavilions.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main trails and observation platforms are mostly accessible, but some forest paths may be uneven. Children should be supervised near water areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the entrance and some kiosks; mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely supported.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Limited cafes inside the park; several local restaurants and small eateries are located near the park entrance.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available nearby; halal food may require visiting local city restaurants outside the park.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels, guesthouses, and inns are available in nearby towns or cities, within 10–20 minutes’ drive from the park.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Other scenic spots along the Yellow River.
  • Historic villages or cultural heritage sites in Henan.
  • Local museums or ecological parks.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small souvenir shops offer postcards, local handicrafts, and park-branded items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Taxis or ride-hailing services for nearby attractions.
  • Private cars or buses for visiting other regional sites.
  • Cycling for short trips within nearby scenic areas.